Is Baku’s 220mph street track F1’s Macau?

Speed records could be broken in Baku qualifying, as Formula 1 gets up to grip with a track that resembles both Monza and Monaco. But while the circuit breaks new ground, expect the front row to have a very familiar look

"The speed is higher in the land of fire", so claims the advertising for Formula 1's newest grand prix, and there's a good chance the new Baku city street circuit will produce new records for top straightline speed in F1 this weekend.

Already in the first free practice session for the European Grand Prix in Azerbaijan (yes, really!) Williams-Mercedes clocked 221mph (355km/h) on the main straight, with an aerodynamic tow. Carlos Sainz Jr, whose Toro Rosso uses an outdated Ferrari engine, managed 218mph thanks to a double tow following other cars in second practice.